The 10 Best Bathroom Remodels

Best Bathroom Remodels for You

What makes the best bathroom remodel for one person can be different for another. For one homeowner, the best bathroom remodel could be a spa-like retreat with a freestanding tub and natural stone. For another, it means a durable, practical space with grab bars that will last for decades. However, there are some upgrades you can make to your bathroom that are generally considered improvements that could help with resale value. The "best" bathroom designs are not just beautiful; they solve a problem, add value, and fit your personal style.

If you are planning a bathroom remodeling project, it is helpful to see what kind of remodels are possible. We have compiled a list of the 10 best bathroom remodel strategies, from high-value updates to luxury personal retreats. This guide will help you identify your own goals and discover which beautiful space is the best fit for you.

1. The Best for Resale Value: The Mid-Range Refresh

This bathroom remodel is all about a high return on investment (ROI). According to the 2025 Cost vs. Value Report of the Journal of Light Construction, a mid-range bathroom renovation is one of the most valuable home improvement projects, recouping 80% of its cost at resale.

What This Remodel Includes:

This project is smart, not flashy. It involves replacing the tub, shower head, and surround with a clean, new unit. It includes installing a solid surface or marble countertops on a modest wood vanity, laying new ceramic tile or porcelain tiles on the floor, and adding a fresh coat of paint. It is the perfect, value-adding update.

2. The Best for Small Spaces: The Open-Up Remodel

For a small guest bath, the goal is to create the illusion of space. This interior design strategy focuses on light and layout.

How to Achieve This:

• Floating Vanities: Mounting a vanity to the wall shows the floor underneath, making the room feel larger.

• GlassShower: A frameless glass walk-in shower or enclosure replaces an opaque shower curtain, opening up the sightlines.

• SmartMirrors: A large, well-lit smart mirror can reflect natural light (even from a shower window), making the entire room feel brighter and more open.

These strategies are especially effective in a common 5-by-8 bathroom remodel, where every inch counts.

3. The Best for Aging-in-Place: The Universal Design Remodel

This is the best bathroom remodel for safety, accessibility, and long-term comfort, often called a universal design or accessible bathroom remodel. Universal design ensures the space is usable for everyone, regardless of age or mobility.

Key Safety Features:

• Curbless Walk-In Shower: This is the most important feature, eliminating the high step of a tub.

• GrabBars: Modern grab bars and anti-slip shower handles are stylish and essential for safety. The AARP HomeFit Guide provides excellent, practical advice for this.

• HandheldShowerheads: These make bathing easier for those who are seated.

4. The Best for Speed: The Surface-Level Remodel

Sometimes you just need a fast, functional update. This bathroom remodeling strategy avoids lengthy demolition by covering existing surfaces.

What This Involves:

This remodel involves installing a new, custom-fit acrylic liner directly over your old tub and wall tile. Paired with new vinyl plank flooring (which can often be laid over old ceramic tiles) and new cabinet hardware, you can get a fresh look in as little as one day.

Looking for a Fast Bathroom Remodel?

We have the timeline for you. See our complete guides on:

• 1-Day Bathroom Remodels
• 1-Week Bathroom Remodels
• 10-Day Bathroom Remodels

5. The Best for Luxury: The Personal Retreat Remodel

A spa-like bathroom renovation transforms your home, focusing on pure indulgence and high-end materials. While budgeting for this level of luxury is a common challenge, our 12x12 bathroom remodel cost guide provides a complete financial breakdown for a large master bath.

Must-Have Luxury Features:

• FreestandingBathtubs: This is the sculptural centerpiece of a luxury master bathroom.

• NaturalStone: Think floor-to-ceiling marble on the walls, marble countertops, wall tile, or a marble shower.

• HeatedFloors: Installing a system like Ditra-Heat Floor Warming Systems under the tile makes the space incredibly comfortable.

• SteamShowers: Smart technology can turn your walk-in shower into a private steam room.

6. The Best for Warmth: The Biophilic Design Remodel

The all-white, clinical bath is giving way to warm, organic spaces. This is biophilic design, which connects your room to nature and promotes calm. It is also one of the top bathroom remodeling trends for 2026.

How to Get This Look:

This interior design trend uses natural materials as its foundation. Think wood vanities (especially white oak or walnut), natural stone vessel sinks, an accent wall of plaster or wood, and plenty of natural light.

7. The Best for Tech Lovers: The Smart Bathroom Remodel

This bathroom remodel integrates smart technology for convenience, hygiene, and efficiency.

Key Tech Upgrades:

• SmartMirrors: These can include anti-fog, LED bulbs, and even smart home dashboards.

• SmartShowers: Control water temperature and flow with your voice.

• TouchlessFaucets: Great for hygiene and water conservation.

• DualFlushToilet: These water-efficient fixtures save thousands of gallons of water per year, a key benefit noted by the EPA's WaterSense program.

8. The Best for Durability: The Built-to-Last Remodel

This bathroom remodel is all about high-quality work and materials that will not fail. 

How to Build It Right: 

• SuperiorWaterproofing: This is the most critical step. It means using a full, integrated system in the shower.

• DurableMaterials: Choosing porcelain tiles over ceramic tiles for floors, as they are denser and less porous.

• CustomCabinetry: Opting for solid surface counters and well-built, high-quality cabinet styles.

• ProfessionalLabor: Hiring a tile setter certified by the National Tile Contractors Association ensures the job is done right.

9. The Best for a Historic Home: The Restoration Remodel

This bathroom remodel is a delicate balance of preserving history while adding modern function.

How to Blend Old and New: 

The key is to keep the original character, like a clawfoot tub or original wall tile, and have it professionally restored. You can then add modern finishing touches, like a handheld showerhead in a vintage style or antique fixtures on a new, period-appropriate wood vanity.

Want decade-specific ideas and product picks? Explore these companion guides and adapt the palette, hardware, and fixtures to your house’s era.

• 1920s Bathroom Remodel
• 1930s Bathroom Remodel
• 1940s Bathroom Remodel
• 1950s Bathroom Remodel
• 1960s Bathroom Remodel
• 1970s Bathroom Remodel
• 1980s Bathroom Remodel
• 1990s Bathroom Remodel

10. The Best for Eco-Conscious Owners: The Sustainable Remodel

This bathroom renovation focuses on minimizing environmental impact.

Key Green Features:

• Eco-Friendly Materials: This includes reclaimed wood, recycled glass tiles, and zero-VOC paints.

• Water-Efficient Fixtures: Eco-friendly shower heads and faucet models are essential.

• Energy Efficiency: Proper insulation, LED bulbs, and a shower window for natural light all reduce the bathroom's carbon footprint.

FAQs About Bathroom Remodels

Why remodel a bathroom?

A bathroom remodel boosts daily comfort, safety, and home value. You get brighter lighting, better ventilation, and fixtures that use less water and energy. Fresh surfaces are easier to clean, which helps control moisture and mildew. Updating worn parts also prevents leaks and hidden damage.

What is the most popular of the 2025 bathroom trends?

The biggest trend is the walk-in shower, especially large, curbless models, with smart technology and natural stone. It is seen as both a luxury and a practical universal design feature.

Do contractors have to follow building codes for bathroom remodels?

Yes. Licensed professionals must follow all applicable local building codes. This protects you and the home, especially for electrical and plumbing work, where safety standards are critical. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) emphasizes that code compliance reduces risks like shock, fire, and water damage.

How to Start Your Bathroom Remodel

The 10 best bathroom remodels are the ones that are planned well. Whether you are aiming for a beautiful space that adds home value or a personal retreat with spa-like features, the project's success depends on the quality of your contractor.

Mr. Remodel connects you with vetted, high-quality bathroom remodeling professionals. We help you find the right team to build your perfect bathroom, whether it is a fast update or a luxury master bathroom project. Get your free, no-obligation quote today.